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Screw Vampires, Cowboys Are Where It's At for Bodice Ripping Romance Novels

Love them or hate them, there’s no denying the popularity of vampires in literature in recent years. But according to publishing experts, the reign of vampire protagonists in romance novels might be on the decline. Writers are creating a very different type of leading man for their bodice-ripping books and this stud can really rock a Stetson.

Yep, we’re gabbing about cowboys! The hunks of the West are making a big comeback in romance novels, reports Time. Sure, sure, sensitive literary vampires like Edward Cullen are deep and trouble and alluring. But the quiet confidence of a cowboy? Well, forget about it. And yowza, don’t even get us started on their snug blue jeans.

When asked about cowboy appeal, Sarah Wendell, author and founder of Smart Bitches Trashy Books, told Time, “There is something very sexy about knowing that at 4 in the morning, if it’s 20 degrees below zero, that a guy’s going to get up and take care of things.” Preach it, honey!

A good pal of mine devours romance novels (yes, I've borrowed plenty over the years!) and though she’s a big fan of Renaissance-type books, I’ve spotted more than a few shirtless studs tending cattle on the covers lining her book shelf.

Sweet readers, what kind of leading men do you prefer to read about? Strong, yet silent cowboys? Shy professors? Complicated business tycoons? Misunderstood architects? And are you tired of vampires in literature?